Red hot poker (Kniphofia uvaria)

Red hot poker

Also known as: Tritomea, Tritoma

Referring to its red hue and its flower formation, the red hot poker has flowering spikes of pale yellow, apricot, orange, and red that bloom in summer. The blooming flowers contain an abundance of nectar, attracting hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. Because of its invasiveness, it is currently considered an environmental weed in portions of south-eastern Australia.

Scientific classification

Species

Red hot poker (Kniphofia uvaria)

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Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

80 cm to 1.2 m

Plant Height

90 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

3 cm to 4 cm

Flower Size

Red, Yellow, Orange

Flower Color

Green, Red, Orange

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

Images of Red hot poker

Distribution of Red hot poker

Distribution Map

Red hot poker is native to South Africa, where it grows in wetland, scrub, and chaparral habitats. It has been planted as a garden ornamental in select areas of the Americas and Europe but has been listed as invasive in California and Oregon.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Damp slopes, marshy ground

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Red hot poker is a popular plant in gardens prized for its long blooming period and its dark green foliage, which remains throughout the year in warmer climates and adds greenery to gardens in the winter. It is a common sight in bee and hummingbird gardens, often planted with coneflowers, verbena, and salvias.

Symbolism

Good fortune

Name Story

Red hot poker: This plant is attractive because its flowers are set up in the bushes of green leaves appearing like torches, and its conical head is matched with red flowers like a small torch. Therefore, it is also called the red hot poker.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Red hot poker, including the following common varieties :

Red hot poker 'Flamenco'Red hot pokers 'Elvira'Red hot poker 'Little Maid'Red hot pokers 'Royal Standard'Red hot pokers 'Bees Sunset'Red hot poker 'Mango Popsicle'Red hot pokers 'Timothy'Red hot pokers 'Toffee Nosed'Red hot pokers 'Bees' Sunset'Red hot pokers 'Bees' Lemon'

Quickly Identify Red hot poker

Towering, upright flowering spikes up to 5 feet (1.5 meters) tall.

Distinctive blooms with vibrant orange transitioning to yellowish green gradient.

Basal leaves are sword-like, reaching up to 2 feet (60 cm) long.

Sequential blooming from bottom to top showcasing a range of colors.

Resilient against browsing deer with mild salt tolerance.

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Care Guide for Red hot poker

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from arid regions of South Africa, red hot poker thrives in dry conditions with minimal moisture, requiring weekly watering. As a perennial, it needs well-draining soil to prevent root rot, emphasizing its sensitivity to overwatering while showcasing striking inflorescences.

Fertilize: Optimal fertilization of red hot poker includes balanced nutrition during the growing season. In spring, switch to high phosphorus fertilizers. Fertilize every 6-8 weeks with diluted solutions and water before fertilizing. Minimal feeding is needed during overwintering, and follow product instructions for best results.

Pruning: Red hot poker thrives with pruning in early to late spring. Trim spent flower stalks and dead foliage to boost growth and health, aligning with its growth cycle for better flowering. This practice enhances appearance and prevents disease, integral for an effective gardening routine.

Propagation: Red hot poker is best propagated by division during spring or autumn. Monitor for new growth as an indicator of success, and separate the plant carefully to preserve root health.

Repotting: Repot red hot poker every 2-3 years in spring, using a larger pot for root growth. After repotting, place red hot poker in full sun and water moderately. Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot, as red hot poker prefers drier conditions.

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